Women Psychotherapists' Reflections on Female Friendships

<p>Psychologists as well as the general public have recognized the importance of female friendships. Scientists call this bond the tending instinct- a kind of female relaxation response that has salutary effects. Such special attachment shields women from isolation and provides an enhanced sense of wellbeing. Intimate friends can therefore act as sisters of the heart to promote connection solace wholeness and longevity. Moreover women friends frequently provide emotional social physical and spiritual benefits. Indeed sisters of the heart constitute an unparalleled bond that encourages women to connect with themselves with others and with the world at large. In this book twelve women therapists who are diverse in age-- young middle and older women; as well as in ethnicity--White African American Latina Asian American Native American and multiracial women---examine the psychological and physical aspects of this unique female bonding. Through their narratives we hear their distinctive voices as women and as healers. In this fashion they reflect on both the functional and dysfunctional dynamics occurring between intimate female friends. Finally these women therapists examine how their experience with a sister of the heart informed their development as healers and discuss how they use this special bond in psychotherapy with women. </p><p>This book was originally published as a special issue of <i>Women & Therapy</i>.</p><p>'This enlightening iconic book is for anyone who wants to understand more about the powerful roles of friendships—including challenges--among women that facilitate their ability to survive and thrive. It is special in that the chapter authors are psychotherapists who describe the impact of female bonding from scientific as well as personal bases. The descriptions are rooted in theory research extensive clinical experience and personal lives. Refreshing and much needed this book will prove useful to professionals as well as any women or men who want to understand the value and salience of female relationships.' </p><p>Melba Vasquez PhD ABPP</p><p>Past President American Psychological Association</p><p>Independent Practice Austin Texas</p>